Aspart of the immune system, they help identify and fight infections.
A viral or bacterial infection typically causes swollen tonsils.
Infected tonsils are calledtonsillitis.
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The terms “swollen tonsils” and “tonsillitis” are often interchangeable.
Tonsillitis is uncommon in adults.
Viral Infection
Viral infections are the most common cause of swollen tonsils.
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About 15% to 30% of tonsillitis cases are because of bacterial infection.
Tonsil Cancer
In adults,cancer of the tonsilsis a rare cause of swollen tonsils.
This can be mistaken for bacterial or viral tonsillitis.
Home Remedies
Swollen tonsils may not require medical treatment.
Your healthcare provider may choose a wait-and-watch approach to see if your body clears the infection.
If prescribed antibiotics, finish all the medication as directed, even if you feel better.
Viral infections are not treated with antibiotics, but antiviral medications may be prescribed in some cases.
Surgery
Surgery to remove the tonsils (called atonsillectomy) is a last-resort treatment for swollen tonsils.
The surgery is performed through the open mouth.
Is Tonsillitis Contagious?
Tonsillitis is not contagious, butviruses or bacteriathat cause it are contagious.
To stop spreading germs, people with tonsillitis should avoid others and wash their hands frequently.
Are There Tests to Diagnose the Cause of Swollen Tonsils?
The results of a lab test can take a few days.
Tonsillitis is usually due to a virus but can also result from a bacterial infection (usuallystrep throat).
Swollen tonsils can heal independently, or they may need treatment such as medication orsurgery.
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